UGI Issues Cold Weather Safety and Scam Awareness Guidance Amid Extreme Temperatures

UGI Utilities, Inc. is urging customers to prioritize safety and preparedness as extreme cold weather conditions persist, with forecasts indicating near-record low temperatures in the coming days. The natural gas and electric utility, which serves more than 760,000 customers, emphasizes the importance of taking proactive measures to mitigate potential cold-weather impacts on homes and personal well-being. This advisory comes as part of the company's ongoing commitment to customer safety during severe weather events.

The utility is highlighting several key safety tips to help residents stay safe. These include ensuring proper ventilation for any fuel-burning appliances, such as furnaces and water heaters, to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Customers are also advised to keep exterior vents clear of snow and ice to maintain proper appliance operation. Furthermore, UGI recommends maintaining adequate home insulation and using draft stoppers on doors and windows to conserve heat and reduce energy costs during the cold snap. Additional information about UGI Utilities, Inc. and its services is available at https://www.ugi.com.

In conjunction with physical safety measures, UGI is raising awareness about potential utility-related scams that often increase during periods of extreme weather. The company warns customers to be vigilant against individuals posing as utility workers who may attempt to gain entry to homes under false pretenses. Legitimate UGI employees carry company identification and, in most cases, drive marked vehicles. Customers should always request to see identification before allowing anyone claiming to be from the utility into their home. UGI also cautions against fraudulent calls or door-to-door solicitations demanding immediate payment for supposed overdue bills, a common tactic used by scammers to exploit customers during stressful situations.

The company stresses that it will never demand immediate payment with a prepaid debit card, gift card, or cryptocurrency, nor will it threaten immediate service disconnection without prior written notice. Customers who receive suspicious communications are encouraged to verify the information directly with UGI through its official channels. By disseminating these warnings, UGI aims to protect its customer base from financial exploitation and ensure that safety remains the paramount concern during the challenging weather conditions. The combination of practical cold-weather preparedness and scam vigilance forms a comprehensive approach to safeguarding community welfare as temperatures plummet to dangerous lows later this week.